Taylor,

I don't know if Twain witnessed either of the transits, perhaps someone else
does.   In addition to "Some Learned Fables," he also mentioned the
phenomena in his October 2, 1876, speech at the Republican meeting in
Harford.

Duane Smith

-----Original Message-----
From: Mark Twain Forum [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Taylor Roberts
Sent: Tuesday, June 05, 2012 11:49 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Transit of Venus

In getting ready for tonight's Transit of Venus, I wonder if SLC witnessed
the previous pair in 1874 and 1882.

I see mention of the astronomical phenomenon in "Some Learned Fables, for
Good Old Boys and Girls" but wondered if anyone was aware of any
letter(s) in which Clemens mentioned it at the time.

I should have looked this up earlier, just as I should have bought my
#14 welder's lens last week so as not to have to run all over town at the
last minute today (sold out in most places).

All the best,

Taylor Roberts
Toronto, Canada